Odisha FC's Brilliance in the AFC Cup
The Indian club Odisha FC has garnered international recognition through its outstanding performances in the 2023-24 AFC Cup Group Stage. The team has successfully advanced to the Inter-Zonal Semi-Final round, scheduled to take place on the 7th and 14th of March 2024.
The journey to reach the knockout stage has never been an easy feat for the Kalinga Warriors. Despite being the only team to qualify from India, amidst the likes of Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City FC in the group stages, this stands as a remarkable accomplishment for the club. Under the adept guidance of head coach Sergio Lobera, the team continues to flourish with each stride, showcasing an unwavering determination to succeed.
Placed in Group D alongside Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bashundhara Kings and Maziya S&RC, Odisha FC had to face these teams in both home and away fixtures with a rule favoring only the table-topper of the group to qualify for the next stage of the grand event.
NEVER THE FAVORITE AMONGST THE FOUR
Undoubtedly, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant in competition, on paper Odisha FC was never stated as the favourite of the group. Even a shaky start to the tournament, after losing the first two matches made it clear about the chances of the Kalinga Warriors, who would have just looked to gain some points and confidence from the remaining games.
The initial game witnessed a display of total dominance by Mohun Bagan, who secured a victory over the team from Odisha with a score of 4-0. Although Odisha exhibited resilience in their subsequent match against Bashundhara Kings on their home ground, they ultimately succumbed to a 3-2 defeat, with Diego Mauricio and Jerry Lalrinzuala contributing to the goal tally for their team.
REGROUPING WITH DETERMINATION
When one is destined for a particular path and possesses the determination to achieve their goals, they are bound to defy expectations with their performances. This was evident in Sergio Lobera’s team, who secured a resounding victory in their third match by defeating Maziya S&RC at the Kalinga Stadium with a commanding score of 6-1. Mourtada Fall netted two goals, while Carlos Delgado, Amey Ranawade, Isak Vanlalruatfela and Sahil Panwar each contributed with one goal, solidifying Odisha’s triumph.
After securing a glorious victory on their turf, our champions continued their winning streak by triumphing over the Maldivian team, Maziya S&RC on their home ground with a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory. The thrilling match saw our star players Mourtada Fall, Diego Mauricio and Roy Krishna showcasing their exceptional skills as they found the back of the net. This sensational win propelled our team further up the points table, cementing their status as true contenders.
A BIGGER CHALLENGE AT THE OPPONENT’S COURTYARD
When you step onto the field to face Mohun Bagan at the Salt Lake Stadium, brace yourself for an electrifying atmosphere fuelled by the unwavering devotion of their fans. The legacy Indian club kicked off their home game against Odisha FC in a spectacular fashion, as Hugo Boumous found the back of the net in the 17th minute.
However, what followed was nothing short of extraordinary. Three rapid-fire goals from Roy Krishna, Diego Mauricio, and Cy Goddard left the Mariners reeling before the first half ended. This was far more than a match – it was a display of raw passion and unyielding spirit.
Although Kiyan Nassiri scored the second goal for his team in the 63rd minute, it was Aniket Jadhav and Isak Vanlalruatfela who ignited the stadium with their incredible performance, taking the scoreline to 5-2 in the added time after 90 minutes of play. This thrilling victory saw Odisha FC create an unforgettable upset in the AFC Cup by defeating the formidable Mohun Bagan Super Giant, sparking hope and excitement as they set their sights on qualifying for the next round.
THE FINAL MARCH AT THE KALINGA STADIUM
With Mohun Bagan and Maziya already out of the contest, all eyes were on the last match of Group D where Odisha FC faced Bashundhara Kings at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. A loss or a draw would have propelled the visitor’s hope, so a win was the only ultimatum to make a statement. The stage was set, the tension was palpable, and every heart in the stadium beat as one, yearning for victory.
The valiant Mourtada Fall, who was unjustly shown a red card in the opening match, emerged as the savior for the Kalinga Warriors. With unwavering determination, he found the back of the net in the 61st minute, single-handedly securing the only goal of the match. His remarkable contribution not only ensured victory but also solidified his team's rightful place in the Inter-Zonal Semi-Final round.
THE ROAD AHEAD FOR THE TRIUMPH
With an outstanding season behind them, Odisha FC is set to face the 2022-23 A-League Men’s Champions, Central Coast Mariners FC in the Inter-Zonal Semi-Finals.
With the unyielding support of fans across the nation, the club will proudly represent the country on the Asian stage. It will strive to make a lasting impact on the history of Odisha and Indian Football for years to come.
LEG 1: 7th March 2024 | Central Coast Mariners FC (AUS) vs Odisha FC (IND) | 1.30 PM IST | Industree Group Stadium, Gosford
LEG 2: 14th March 2024 | Odisha FC (IND) vs Central Coast Mariners FC (AUS) | 3.30 PM IST | Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
Broadcast & Streaming Details: Fancode and Sports18 Channel
Odisha FC's Brilliance in the AFC Cup
The Indian club Odisha FC has garnered international recognition through its outstanding performances in the 2023-24 AFC Cup Group Stage. The team has successfully advanced to the Inter-Zonal Semi-Final round, scheduled to take place on the 7th and 14th of March 2024.
The journey to reach the knockout stage has never been an easy feat for the Kalinga Warriors. Despite being the only team to qualify from India, amidst the likes of Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City FC in the group stages, this stands as a remarkable accomplishment for the club. Under the adept guidance of head coach Sergio Lobera, the team continues to flourish with each stride, showcasing an unwavering determination to succeed.
Placed in Group D alongside Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bashundhara Kings and Maziya S&RC, Odisha FC had to face these teams in both home and away fixtures with a rule favoring only the table-topper of the group to qualify for the next stage of the grand event.
NEVER THE FAVORITE AMONGST THE FOUR
Undoubtedly, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant in competition, on paper Odisha FC was never stated as the favourite of the group. Even a shaky start to the tournament, after losing the first two matches made it clear about the chances of the Kalinga Warriors, who would have just looked to gain some points and confidence from the remaining games.
The initial game witnessed a display of total dominance by Mohun Bagan, who secured a victory over the team from Odisha with a score of 4-0. Although Odisha exhibited resilience in their subsequent match against Bashundhara Kings on their home ground, they ultimately succumbed to a 3-2 defeat, with Diego Mauricio and Jerry Lalrinzuala contributing to the goal tally for their team.
REGROUPING WITH DETERMINATION
When one is destined for a particular path and possesses the determination to achieve their goals, they are bound to defy expectations with their performances. This was evident in Sergio Lobera’s team, who secured a resounding victory in their third match by defeating Maziya S&RC at the Kalinga Stadium with a commanding score of 6-1. Mourtada Fall netted two goals, while Carlos Delgado, Amey Ranawade, Isak Vanlalruatfela and Sahil Panwar each contributed with one goal, solidifying Odisha’s triumph.
After securing a glorious victory on their turf, our champions continued their winning streak by triumphing over the Maldivian team, Maziya S&RC on their home ground with a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory. The thrilling match saw our star players Mourtada Fall, Diego Mauricio and Roy Krishna showcasing their exceptional skills as they found the back of the net. This sensational win propelled our team further up the points table, cementing their status as true contenders.
A BIGGER CHALLENGE AT THE OPPONENT’S COURTYARD
When you step onto the field to face Mohun Bagan at the Salt Lake Stadium, brace yourself for an electrifying atmosphere fuelled by the unwavering devotion of their fans. The legacy Indian club kicked off their home game against Odisha FC in a spectacular fashion, as Hugo Boumous found the back of the net in the 17th minute.
However, what followed was nothing short of extraordinary. Three rapid-fire goals from Roy Krishna, Diego Mauricio, and Cy Goddard left the Mariners reeling before the first half ended. This was far more than a match – it was a display of raw passion and unyielding spirit.
Although Kiyan Nassiri scored the second goal for his team in the 63rd minute, it was Aniket Jadhav and Isak Vanlalruatfela who ignited the stadium with their incredible performance, taking the scoreline to 5-2 in the added time after 90 minutes of play. This thrilling victory saw Odisha FC create an unforgettable upset in the AFC Cup by defeating the formidable Mohun Bagan Super Giant, sparking hope and excitement as they set their sights on qualifying for the next round.
THE FINAL MARCH AT THE KALINGA STADIUM
With Mohun Bagan and Maziya already out of the contest, all eyes were on the last match of Group D where Odisha FC faced Bashundhara Kings at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. A loss or a draw would have propelled the visitor’s hope, so a win was the only ultimatum to make a statement. The stage was set, the tension was palpable, and every heart in the stadium beat as one, yearning for victory.
The valiant Mourtada Fall, who was unjustly shown a red card in the opening match, emerged as the savior for the Kalinga Warriors. With unwavering determination, he found the back of the net in the 61st minute, single-handedly securing the only goal of the match. His remarkable contribution not only ensured victory but also solidified his team's rightful place in the Inter-Zonal Semi-Final round.
THE ROAD AHEAD FOR THE TRIUMPH
With an outstanding season behind them, Odisha FC is set to face the 2022-23 A-League Men’s Champions, Central Coast Mariners FC in the Inter-Zonal Semi-Finals.
With the unyielding support of fans across the nation, the club will proudly represent the country on the Asian stage. It will strive to make a lasting impact on the history of Odisha and Indian Football for years to come.
LEG 1: 7th March 2024 | Central Coast Mariners FC (AUS) vs Odisha FC (IND) | 1.30 PM IST | Industree Group Stadium, Gosford
LEG 2: 14th March 2024 | Odisha FC (IND) vs Central Coast Mariners FC (AUS) | 3.30 PM IST | Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
Broadcast & Streaming Details: Fancode and Sports18 Channel
